More than one thousand of the world's top sailors and coaches from about 20 countries and regions will compete in a series of sailing events along the coast of Qingdao in East China's Shandong province.

These sailing competitions are part of the 3rd Qingdao International Sailing Week scheduled from Aug 20 to Sept 4, 2011.

Qingdao plans to hold high-end international events in China and to construct a multifunctional top-class sports venue, said Yuan Zhiping, vice director of Qingdao Yachting Association and consultant to Qingdao Sports Federation,

Mayor's Cup International Regatta (Weihai-Qingdao) 2011, the 3rd "Lushang Cup" Qingdao International Regatta and Qingdao International Optimist Sailing Camp and Optimist Sailing Regatta 2011 are three famous sailing events to take place in the coming two weeks.

An awarding ceremony will be followed and officials from the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), World Union of Olympic Cities and International Group of Olympic Museums will be invited to present the awards to winners.

"ISAF has agreed to offer centenary posters to showcase the development of sailing sports all over the world for the past 100 years," said Lin Zhiwei, president of the Qingdao Sports Association.

At the same time, Olympic athletes and celebrities from sailing circles will discuss topics on international cooperation, cultural diversity, economic development, science and technology, humanity and urban experience. Music, sports, photography, beer and cuisine lovers will also find their favorite activities during this 16-day event.

By Hu Qing (China Daily Qingdao Bureau)

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Tania Lee